EVERY pub, off-licence and supermarket in an area of Crewe labelled as “booze- saturated” will receive a written warning that they face closure if they do not help fight alcohol-related disorder.

It is hoped the stern reminder will help cut crime and anti-social behaviour caused by alcohol in the St John’s and Valley wards of the town.

Members of the public are also being urged to help by reporting retailers seen selling alcohol to under-18s or people who are already drunk.

Labour councillors say they want to remind licensees they are often the last line of defence, and will be hit hard if they are found to be exacerbating the problem.

Crewe South county councillor Dorothy Flude said the group would push for maximum penalties against all who sell booze to youngsters.

She added: “I am writing to all licensees in Crewe South to remind them of their obligations under the Licensing Act. This is an area saturated with booze. It is causing so much trouble and it needs tackling.

“A review of any alcohol licence can be started at any time by local residents or the police, and I pledge to work closely with them to get a review of any problem premises.

“We want rogue retailers to know we mean business. All it needs is Trading Standards or residents to present the evidence to the local licensing committee and magistrates courts.”

Later this year, drinking in public will be outlawed in 18 wards in Crewe and Nantwich under the Designated Public Places Order (DPPO) scheme, but Labour councillors continue to call for all the borough to be included.

The St John’s and Valley wards will be covered by the bans, but are being identified now as priority areas because of the proliferation of licensed premises.

Last week the Chronicle reported on the fears of residents in the Alton Street area over the opening of the 16th licensed premises in one square mile.

Cllr Flude added: “From today, if you notice a venue in your community that is selling drinks to people who are already drunk, encouraging anti-social behaviour or selling alcohol to under-18s then please let your local council or the police know or get in touch with me directly.”